New Delhi, India, January 2025 – Shri Ashok Chandra has assumed charge as the Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of Punjab National Bank (PNB), marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career spanning more than 33 years in the banking industry. His extensive expertise and leadership capabilities position him to lead one of India’s largest public sector banks to greater heights.
Shri Chandra most recently served as the Executive Director of Canara Bank. During his tenure, he oversaw critical verticals, including Digital Banking and IT, Strategy and Planning, Marketing, Financial Inclusion, MSME, Retail Assets, Agriculture, Priority Sector, Gold Loan, and General Administration. His leadership contributed significantly to the bank’s operational excellence and strategic growth.
He also held prestigious roles as a Director on the Boards of Canara HSBC Life Insurance Company Limited, PSB Alliance Ltd., and Canara Venture Capital Fund Ltd. Additionally, he was an active member of the IBA Standing Committee for HR, further demonstrating his industry influence and thought leadership.
Before Canara Bank, Shri Chandra was the Chief General Manager at Union Bank of India, where he led the Recovery, Legal, and Stressed Asset Management vertical. His efforts were instrumental in reducing the bank’s stressed assets. He also served as a Director on the Boards of The Union Trustee Company Private Limited and The National Asset Reconstruction Company Limited (NARCL).
Shri Chandra commenced his career with Corporation Bank as a Probationary Officer in 1991 and progressed through various roles, including heading Zones, Regions, and Branches across geographies. His international experience includes leading the bank’s Representative Office in Dubai, UAE. Throughout his career, he has received numerous accolades, including Star Performer, Best Branch Award, and Champion of Champions Award, underscoring his commitment to excellence.
Shri Chandra holds a Master’s Degree in Economics and is a Certified Associate of the Indian Institute of Bankers (CAIIB). He also participated in the Leadership Programme designed by the Banks Board Bureau and conducted by IIM Bangalore in 2019-2020.
About Punjab National Bank (PNB)
Established in 1894, Punjab National Bank (PNB) is a premier public sector bank headquartered in New Delhi. It ranks as the second-largest public sector bank in India by business volume and network. PNB serves over 180 million customers through its extensive network of 12,248 branches and 13,000+ ATMs, offering a wide range of financial products and services.
PNB continues to be a cornerstone of India’s banking industry, committed to financial inclusion and excellence, and Shri Chandra’s leadership marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the bank.
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